Bridging the Gap Theatre

Talk to the attendees about your ideas for the bridge industry!

• Display Monitor and laptop will be provided, bring your flash drive with your presentation!
• Presentations will be 25 minutes in length and scheduled every half hour during key times at the conference.
• Reserve your time(s) below!

Questions: email k.emmerson@eswp.com

2026 Schedule

Tuesday, 6/16 – 10:00 AM
Revolutionizing Bridge Inspections with AI Powered 3D Defect Detection
Albert Mansour, ConeLabs

Traditional bridge inspections are notoriously dangerous, manual, and cost-prohibitive, leading to critical infrastructure gaps. This presentation introduces a game-changing, web-based platform that converts standard 2D imagery into high-resolution, hyper-accurate 3D models. Learn how our advanced AI automates the monotonous task of detecting cracks, spalls, and rust in a true 3D space — empowering inspectors to scale operations, lower risks, and extend structure lifespans without disruption.

Wednesday, 6/17 – 9:30 AM
Rope Mesh as structural substitute for footbridge structures – Learnings from case studies
Daniel Sekzer, Jakob, Inc.

This presentation explores the use of rope mesh systems as both fall-protection elements and integral load-bearing components of pedestrian bridge structures. Through the case studies of the Himmelhausmattesteg footbridge in Trubschachen and the La Pendenta suspension bridge in Disentis, Switzerland, it examines the mechanical properties, design methodology, testing procedures, and nonlinear structural behavior of rope meshes.

The presented projects demonstrate how rope meshes can effectively replace conventional hanger cables for suspension bridges while simultaneously serving as fall-protection systems. This dual functionality offers an innovative, lightweight, and efficient approach to bridge design, expanding the potential applications of rope mesh technology in modern pedestrian bridge engineering.